What Is Steel Strapping?

In short, it’s the process of using a strap (sometimes also called a bundle or a band) to reinforce something, hold it, offer stabilization, or fasten things together.

The strap is incredibly flexible but still secure in large part thanks to the specific joining process. During this process, the strap is pulled as tightly as is possible and sealed with a hammer, welding, or sealing and crimping.

Those who need an extra layer of protection may opt to galvanize the steel during the joining process. This means that the steel is dipped in zinc so that it can stand up to potential corrosion and rust.

It has an incredibly high break strength, which means that it’s especially popular in the packaging and construction industries.

It’s used to bundle bricks together, to make pavers, to secure glass items during the shipping process, and even to ensure that items on top of crates or pallets stay in place. It’s also used to install traffic lights, insulate pipes, transport lumber, and more.

It’s Recyclable

One of the best things about stainless steel strapping is that it’s much more eco-friendly than many might think.

In fact, about 90% of the materials used in making steel strapping are recycled and reused. Because steel is so strong, it can be made into new things like cans, appliances for the home, cars, and materials for construction over and over again – without losing any of its initial strength.

It’s Weatherproof

Stainless steel strapping is also celebrated for its ability to withstand incredibly high temperatures and other extreme weather conditions.

It is resistant to sun damage, and it won’t change shape and lose structure when exposed to high heat and UV rays. It can also stand up to rain, sleet, and snow without rusting for long periods of time.

Not only does this make it an excellent option for outdoor use, but it also helps companies to cut down on the costs of maintenance and replacement.

You Can Select Different Grades

Depending on the type of job you’re working on, you’ll likely need to choose between three different grades of stainless steel strapping.

Type 201 is the most affordable option, but it’s still incredibly strong. However, it won’t stand up to rust and corrosion quite as well as some of the other grades, so it’s mainly used for indoor projects.

Type 304 is the most popular stainless steel grade and is most often used in the construction industry. It’s especially celebrated for its ability to resist even extreme moisture.

Finally, there is Type 316, which is used in larger, long-term projects. It’s used to create things like submarines and underwater explorers, in your refrigerator, and even on gas drilling platforms.

In addition to different grades, stainless steel strapping also comes in many different sizes, sometimes even as small as 3/8ths of a single inch.

It Requires Special Tools and Safety Measures

Gloves must absolutely be worn when handling the steel, as it can sometimes have sharp edges that could easily cut your hands. You’ll also need to wear a hard hat and proper safety shoes to protect your feet in case the steel is dropped.

Especially if you’re planning on cutting the steel in any way, proper eye protection should also be worn. Steel is difficult to work with thanks to its durability, and unfortunately, accidents can happen if you’re not careful.

Cutting the steel also requires unique tools, usually duck-billed shears with longer handles, so that you can maintain a bit of distance between yourself and the strapping.

Cuts should always be made in a square shape, as this makes producing sharp, rough edges far less likely.

Is Steel Strapping Right for Your Job?

We hope that this post has helped you to learn more about steel strapping, and why it’s often a stronger and more cost-effective alternative to other kinds of bundling.

If you do decide to work with steel strapping, remember to take employee safety seriously. Frequently meet with your team to ensure that safety measures are followed, and post safety signs and regulations throughout your workplace.

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